Sep 13 2006
NexTech Materials, Ltd. and Plug Power Inc. have announced today a collaboration to develop a Solid Oxide (SOFC) fuel cell power system. The two companies plan to complete a number of joint activities including market research, fuel cell stack development and testing, system design and prototype construction.
According to Bill Dawson, President/CEO of NexTech, “Demonstration of high power density fuel cell stacks opens new avenues of cooperation between NexTech and system manufacturers. We are pleased to have Plug Power, an established leader in the deployment of clean, reliable on-site energy products as our partner in this project.”
The initial target market is military, particularly for U.S. Air Force and Army applications. Other potential markets include premium assured (wireless communications) and commercial stationary backup power applications. “Plug Power is open to exploring other fuel cell technology platforms that may open new opportunities within our targeted customer applications,” said Dr. Roger Saillant, Plug Power, Chief Executive Officer.
SOFCs offer potential performance advantages for power applications where the use of commonly available fuels are required. They have been demonstrated to produce power at the highest efficiency of any fuel cell and can operate on natural gas and propane. Work is underway to utilize coal gas, diesel, gasoline and kerosene fuels in environmentally friendly fuel cell systems.
Partners in this project include; The Ohio Department of Development, who were instrumental in providing seed funding through the Third Frontier Program, and Case Western University who will develop testing methodologies to help minimize development cycle time through work at the Wright Fuel Cell Group.
Bill Dawson stated, “NexTech and Plug Power will hire approximately eight scientists and engineers to complete the research and development needed for this project.” U. S. Representative Pat Tiberi participated in the announcement. "We've heard about the potential of fuel cells for years," said Congressman Tiberi (R-Galena). "NexTech is on the cutting edge of turning that potential into practical uses for the military, business and consumers. The company's joint development project with Plug Power is another step in making our state a leader in fuel cell development."